Rooted Ecosystems Community Building Circles for Youth

We invite youth ages 14-21 to us for an opportunity to learn more about leading community building circles with their friends and families.
About this Event

NewRoot's Rooted Ecosystems program invites young people (ages 14-21) from Englewood to learn more about the practice and power of community building circles.

In this session, participants will learn to use intentional, proactive Restorative Justice practices. Community building supports young people and adults as they connect, build trust, and maintain ongoing relationship building.

When strong relationships exist within a community, individuals are less likely to harm one another and more invested in repairing relationships when conflict occurs. Using NewRoot best-practice planning tools, students will leave this workshop ready to build and strengthen relationships in their community through the time-honored practice of circles.

Snacks and light refreshments will be provided! This session is open to youth ages 14-21 affiliated with community-based organizations in Englewood.

What is Rooted Ecosystems?

Rooted Ecosystems is a multi-organization program dedicated to uniting students, educators, community-members, administrators, nonprofit staff, and families around the same language: one of connection, relationship building, and support. This program will provide restorative practice training for adults and students across elementary and high schools, as well as through public-facing activities and with community-based organizations. This program is funded as part of the Chicago Department of Public Health’s “A Healthy Chicago” initiative aimed at combating community violence and strengthening access to the tools for a healthier life.

What are Restorative Practices and SEL?

Restorative Practices (RP) are trauma-informed approaches that strengthen relationships through trust, understanding, and repairing harm. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) equips both students and adults to manage emotions, build relationships, and make responsible decisions. Together, these evidence-based practices help adults establish positive communities where conflict is navigated peacefully and students experience greater emotional safety, deeper connection, and improved academic and social outcomes.